Ski touring demands a solid knowledge of the mountains. Depending on the spot you choose, the difficulty and avalanche risk can vary considerably. To stay safe, you need to choose a location suited to your level. Explore the must-visit spots for ski touring.
Key takeaways:
- Resorts offer marked ski touring routes that are accessible to beginners.
- Wild mountain ranges are reserved for skiers with a certain level of experience.
- Every outing must be planned in advance to avoid unnecessary risk.
Getting started safely: marked resort routes
No discussion of ski touring would be complete without mentioning Arêches-Beaufort, in Savoie. For over 30 years, the resort has hosted the famous ski mountaineering race Pierra Menta. In total, four permanent routes, known as "Traces" and colour-coded by difficulty, are on offer. To get started in ski touring, the Green Trace is ideal, covering 1.5 km with 310 m of elevation gain.
Another Savoyard resort, Val Thorens promises reliable snow cover thanks to its high altitude, making it the highest resort in Europe. For ski touring, it offers five marked routes with exceptional views. The Camille route is particularly popular with beginners, covering 1.9 km with 235 m of elevation gain.
For skiers looking for a more convivial and accessible resort, La Clusaz, in Haute-Savoie, is a great option. The resort offers two marked ski touring routes: the Beauregard route (5 km and 600 m of elevation gain) and the Massif de l'Étale route (4 km and 700 m of elevation gain).
Unlike in the Alps, ski touring is less structured and marked in the Pyrenees. However, it is possible to get started at Gourette, in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. A freely accessible route connects the Cotch chairlift to the hamlet of Fontaines de Cotch. Its four sections can be completed in sequence or individually, for a total of 4.5 km and 730 m of elevation gain.
For the experienced: accessible wild mountain ranges
For more experienced athletes with solid ski touring fitness, wild mountain ranges are often more appealing. In the Southern Alps, the Queyras is highly sought after. A wide range of routes are possible, notably from Arvieux-Brunissard, Abriès or Saint-Véran.
Still in the Southern Alps, the Mercantour offers more technical terrain. For experienced skiers, the Madone de Fenestre refuge serves as the starting point for numerous routes including the Balcon du Gélas, the Tour du Gélas and Caïre Cabret. These still-pristine locations have the advantage of offering views over the highest summits of the Mercantour.
Located in the Northern Alps, the Vanoise is a vast playground for skiers. You will find a huge number of routes with varying elevation gains, between 300 and 1,000 m, and distances generally ranging from 5 to 12 km depending on the route. The classic Col de la Vanoise route takes you through remarkably unspoilt natural scenery.
The Fiz massif is another highly popular option. Its breathtaking landscapes offer glimpses of the Mont-Blanc massif. Here too, several routes with 700 to 1,200 m of elevation gain await skiers. Starting points include, for example, Plaine-Joux or Servoz.
Finally, skiers looking for natural terrain away from any infrastructure can head to the Pyrénées Ariégeoises. Several routes are available here too, including one with 750 m of elevation gain starting from the Laparan dam and reaching the Col du Riutort.
Choosing the best spots for ski touring
Before deciding where to go ski touring, there are several key reflexes to adopt. First, check snow levels, read the avalanche bulletin (BRA) and check the weather forecast. Before heading out, also remember to bring all your safety equipment in addition to your ski touring kit.
Choose a route suited to your level. Find out about the elevation gain and technical challenges. If you are a beginner or intermediate, opt for straightforward terrain with open areas, wide valleys and consistent gradients. Also make sure you can easily access the starting point.
Even before you set off, have a Plan B. Choose a similar but shorter route as an alternative in case of problems. Do not hesitate to check specialist forums or local hiking groups for up-to-date information on trail conditions.
Your level, your expectations and your location should guide you in deciding where to go ski touring. By choosing suitable routes and carefully planning each outing, you will make the most of the mountains in complete safety.
Photo credits: Grégoire Fauquenoi
